President William Ruto has pledged tax incentives for employers who absorb graduate interns under a new mandatory one-year paid internship programme launched on Friday.
President William Ruto announced the launch of the NextGen Youth Empowerment Programme during an event at State House in Nairobi on July 24. The initiative requires every university and college graduate to complete a one-year internship at a workplace of their choice.
Ruto said the government would create a legal framework to support the programme by withdrawing existing legislation in Parliament and incorporating employer incentives. He urged private sector firms to offer placements and proposed tax relief for companies that host interns and cover costs such as fare and lunch.
The President noted that employers have long complained about graduates lacking practical skills. He advised participants to focus on skill development rather than immediate financial benefits from the internships.